French forward Antoine Griezmann has defended the decision to dress as a black Harlem Globetrotter for an 80s themed fancy dress party after causing a storm online.

Clearly aware of the debate raging online, he took to Twitter saying in French: "Calm down guys, I'm fan of the Harlem globetrotters and the good times... it's a tribute."

His response has met a tepid response with Twitter user Omar saying: "Our colour is not a disguise."

Earlier in the evening, hot on the heels of a betting shop in the UK landing itself in hot-water for a punter dressing-up as Diane Abbott, Griezmann dressed as a Harlem Globetrotter dousing his face, arms and legs in black paint.

The picture in question (Image: Twitter/@AntoGriezmann)

Seemingly unaware of the dangerous waters he was entering, he captioned the picture which he put on his Instagram and Twitter with '80s Party' with a basketball and crying laughing emoji.

He was immediately endowed with negative reactions, with many shocked at the decision.

Jordan S kept it simple saying: "No."

Liverpool fan Chris said: "Dude, you're gona get so much backlash."

Antoine Griezmann has defended his choice of costume (Image: REUTERS)

A user called Roadman Cook seemed to sum up the general feeling online, saying: "Man...delete this fast" adding that "Careers are ruined over this in the US."

The rest of the comments were a series of humourous gifs summing up the sentiment of incredulity at Griezmann's decision.